Do you prepare or serve food as a part of your job? Do you need a food handler card? Then you're in the right place!
In general, Trust20’s ANAB-accredited Food Handler Certificate training is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about the essentials of food safety. More specifically, people who work with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or food-contact surfaces should consider food safety training.
If you've been asked to get a food handler card, your first instinct might be to ask ChatGPT, search Google, or look up your state's requirements online. The challenge is that food handler training requirements vary by state, county, and even employer, making it difficult to know which course you actually need.
This guide explains who needs food handler training, when it's required, and how to choose an accredited course that meets your state's requirements. Here's what we'll cover:
Who needs a Food Handler card?
Food Handler Certificate requirements and accreditation
Food Handler vs. Food Manager certification
Do you need a course with ANAB accreditation?
How to choose an online food handler course
Choosing a food safety training
Who needs a Food Handler card?
If your job involves preparing, serving, storing, or handling unpackaged food, there's a good chance you'll need food safety training.
While requirements vary by jurisdiction, food handler training is commonly required, or strongly recommended, for:
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Restaurant employees
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Fast food workers
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Grocery store employees
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Bakery staff
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Coffee shop employees
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Caterers
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Food truck workers
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School cafeteria staff
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Senior living and healthcare food service employees
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Warehouse and food distribution personnel
Even employees who only occasionally handle food, such as teachers supervising snack time or caregivers assisting with meal preparation, can benefit from understanding basic food safety practices.
Food Handler Certificate requirements and accreditation
There are some states that require everyone working in a foodservice establishment to have a food handler certificate or food handler card from an ANAB-accredited organization. 
An accredited training means that a course conforms to the standards put forth by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)–a non-governmental organization that provides accreditation services and the largest accreditation body in North America.
If you’re working at a business in Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington-now is the time to seek out and take an approved food safety training. Requirements differ state to state.
Always check with your manager and local health department regarding the regulations of the jurisdictions you live in–some counties in other states require staff to receive accredited training as well.
Food Handler vs. Food Manager certification
Food handler training is designed for employees who prepare, serve, or handle food as part of their daily responsibilities. It covers the fundamentals of preventing foodborne illness, including:
- Personal hygiene
- Cross-contamination prevention
- Time and temperature control
- Cleaning and sanitizing
- Safe food storage
Food Protection Manager Certification, on the other hand, is intended for supervisors, managers, and Person-in-Charge (PIC) roles who oversee food safety operations and train other employees.
If you've recently been promoted into management, congratulations! You may need to complete an accredited Food Protection Manager Certification instead of a Food Handler course.
Do you need a course with ANAB accreditation?
When comparing online food handler courses, you'll often see references to ANAB accreditation.
The ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) evaluates food safety training providers to ensure their courses meet nationally recognized standards for content quality and assessment.1
Choosing an ANAB-accredited course helps ensure your training will meet the requirements in jurisdictions that recognize accredited food handler programs.
How to choose an online food handler course
You'll probably discover dozens of food safety training providers. Rather than choosing the first result you see, compare your options carefully.
When evaluating a course, consider:
- Whether it's ANAB accredited
- Whether it's accepted in your state
- Mobile compatibility
- Multiple language options
- Course length
- Ease of navigation
- Updated content that reflects current food safety regulations
The best training is the one that prepares you to safely handle food while meeting your employer's requirements.
Why choose Trust20?
Trust20's Food Handler Training was developed with guidance from food safety experts, instructional designers, and experienced food service professionals.
The course is regularly reviewed to ensure it reflects current food safety guidance and regulatory expectations. It's designed to be engaging, easy to navigate, and accessible across desktop and mobile devices so learners can complete training whenever it's most convenient.
Whether you're starting your first restaurant job or renewing your training, choosing an accredited food handler course can help ensure you meet your employer's requirements while building the knowledge needed to keep customers safe.
Questions about Trust20’s Food Handler Certificate training? Visit the Food Handler Certificate page and start your food handler training today!
FAQ
Do I need a food handler card?
Requirements vary by state, county, and employer. Many jurisdictions require food handler training for employees who prepare or serve unpackaged food.
Can I take food handler training online?
Yes. Many states allow approved online food handler training from accredited providers.
How long does food handler training take?
Most online food handler courses can be completed in a few hours, though course lengths vary by provider.
What's the difference between a food handler card and food manager certification?
Food handler training is intended for employees who work with food, while food manager certification is designed for supervisors and managers responsible for overseeing food safety operations.
How long is a food handler certificate valid?
Certification periods vary depending on state and local regulations. Always check your employer's requirements and local health department for renewal timelines.
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